Gal Gadot Returns to Israel to Vote and Discusses Life Abroad on Eretz Nehederet
Hollywood star Gal Gadot returned to Israel to vote in the elections, making a special appearance on 'Eretz Nehederet' to discuss her life abroad, deep-rooted ties to the country, and plans to return permanently.
Hollywood star Gal Gadot returned to Israel to cast her vote in the upcoming elections and made a surprise appearance in the popular satirical sketch show "Eretz Nehederet," joining Asher Ben Horin (Yuval Semo) in his iconic taxi.
During the cab ride, Gadot opened up about the complexities of living abroad since the outbreak of the war, her deep connection to Israel, and her plans to build a new home in the country. Explaining her decision to fly home simply to vote, she noted the tense daily reality of being a recognized Israeli figure overseas. "I came to vote, what did you expect? If not now, then when? It is tough being an Israeli abroad today. People know I am Israeli, and I often wear masks when going to supermarkets or public places."
Navigating Global Perceptions and Local Roots
Reflecting on the gap between foreign media coverage and the reality on the ground, Gadot discussed her ongoing efforts to provide context to international audiences. "There is a lot of hatred. I try to explain that what you see from there, you do not see from here—and vice versa. The news broadcasted abroad is entirely different from what is shown here," she shared.
Although her four daughters with husband Jaron Varsano are growing up abroad, their ties to Israel remain remarkably strong. "There they are Americans, but within two weeks in Israel they are already speaking fluently with local slang," she said. When Semo asked about returning permanently, Gadot confirmed, "Of course, we are already building a house here and want to come back, there is no doubt about it."
Philanthropy and Hollywood Journey
Beyond her television appearance, Gadot was recently announced as the recipient of the prestigious 2026 Genesis Prize, often dubbed the "Jewish Nobel." Using her influence, she helped direct a massive three million dollar philanthropic fund—including the original one million dollar prize and two million raised with the Jewish Funders Network (JFN)—to support twenty-seven Israeli non-profit organizations focused on mental health and trauma recovery following the events of October 7.
Gadot's rise to global superstardom remains one of Hollywood's most remarkable trajectories. Starting with a modest salary in the "Fast & Furious" franchise, her career skyrocketed when she secured the role of Wonder Woman in the DC Extended Universe. After commanding ten million dollars for "Wonder Woman 1984," she cemented her status as one of the world's highest-paid actresses while steadfastly maintaining her bond with Israel.
